Understanding Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs)
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, keeping your electrical systems safe and compliant is essential. One of the most important tools for achieving this is the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
In this blog, we’ll explain what an EICR is, why it’s important, who needs one, and how often it should be carried out—helping you stay safe, legal, and informed.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)(link) is a formal document produced after a detailed inspection of a property's electrical systems. It assesses the condition of the fixed wiring—including sockets, light fittings, fuse boards, and other parts of the fixed installations. PAT testing isn’t part of an EICR as these are plug in items, EICRs cover fixed wiring only.
The aim of the report is to reduce the likelihood of anybody or anything being damaged, injured or causing a fire, some of the main points would be to:
Identify any deficiencies or damage
Highlight potential electrical risks
Ensure the installation is safe for continued use
Confirm compliance with the latest UK Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)
Give recommendations for improvements to the installation
For more information checkout our EICR service page here.
Why Is an EICR Important?
Electrical systems and wiring degrade over time. Loose connections, aging cables, overloaded circuits, or other faulty parts of an installation can all pose serious risks—especially fire hazards.
An EICR offers:
✅ Safety: Spot faults before they become dangerous.
✅ Compliance: Meet legal obligations (especially for landlords and businesses).
✅ Peace of Mind: Know your property’s electrics are in safe working order.
✅ Insurance Support: Some insurers require proof of regular electrical inspections and if you don’t have them, your insurance may be invalid and not payable in the event of a claim (businesses and homeowners).
Who Needs an EICR?
🏠 Domestic Properties
Landlords: Commonly referred to as “Landlord’s Safety Certificate”- It’s a legal requirement in England to have an EICR carried out at least every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy as per regulations
Homeowners: Recommended every 10 years or when selling or buying a property, but it’s becoming more common to see 5 or less year periods specified by contractors.
Buyers & Sellers: An EICR can highlight hidden issues and provide reassurance during a property transaction.
🏢 Commercial Properties
Business Owners: Legally obligated to ensure electrical systems are safe.
Recommended Frequency: Typically every 5 years, or less for environments such as offices, labs, shops or commercial kitchens.
Insurance & Compliance: Regular EICRs help demonstrate due diligence in risk assessments and health & safety audits.
What Happens During an EICR?
A qualified electrician will:
1. Visually inspect the system for signs of damage or wear.
2. Test circuits for safety, proper function, and compliance.
3. Record any ‘C1’ (danger present), ‘C2’ (potential danger), ‘C3’ (recommendation) and ‘FI’ (further investigation required) findings.
4. Provide a written report outlining their observations and any remedial work needed.
What Happens If the EICR Fails?
If your property receives unsatisfactory results, you are required to carry out remedial work** to address any C1, C2 or FI issues. Once completed, a follow-up inspection or certificate will confirm that the issues have been resolved.
For landlords, this is not optional—**you must provide proof of repairs within 28 days** (or sooner if specified).
Need an EICR?
At Carter’s Electrical Services, we carry out professional, reliable EICRs for residential, commercial and industrial properties across Oxford, Oxfordshire.
Our electricians ensure every inspection is thorough, compliant, and clearly explained—so you’re never left in the dark.
📞 Contact us today to book an EICR or get expert advice on your electrical safety obligations.